[19] The MAGIA enables recipients to participate in collaborative projects and/or programmes for up to three months, at selected internationally acclaimed institutions, corporations, agencies and organisations within the network of the Merdeka Award's three founding partners – PETRONAS, ExxonMobil and Shell.
The MA Grant is open to all qualified Malaysians between 22 and 35 years of age, who are able to demonstrate the Spirit of Merdeka within their areas of expertise.
As of 2024, the grant is awarded every cycle to one candidate within each of the following disciplines The broad categories involved for the consideration of the MA Grant are: Three steps are involved in the selection process: Submission Reviewed by the Merdeka Award Secretariat, all applications must be submitted together with an Attachment Proposal and Attachment Budget, outlining the proposed area of research, projected expenses, expected outcomes and benefits to Malaysia and her people.
The Merdeka Award Talk Series[22] (2019–present) provides a platform for individuals to connect based on shared core values, with the goal of inspiring leadership that can positively impact communities, contribute to national development, drive economic growth, and support environmental sustainability.
The panel sessions within the Merdeka Award Talk Series aim to highlight thought leaders who exemplify resilience, adaptability, and creativity in overcoming challenges.
It addresses a range of critical issues facing Malaysian society today, offering diverse perspectives and fostering awareness to inspire both individual and collective change.
The Merdeka Award Roundtables (August 2011–2018), was a series of TV talk shows carried on ASTRO Awani Channel 501.
Featuring leading figures from Malaysia's corporate, academic and social spheres, the Roundtables was designed to inspire, debate and discuss key issues of interest to Malaysians.